USDA Inspector General to Review USDA Reorganization Proposal

The Department of Agriculture’s inspector general will investigate the proposed movement of two USDA agencies outside of the Washington, DC area. Politico reports the investigation will look into whether USDA followed proper procedures when deciding to move the agencies. Earlier this year, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced a plan that would move the Economic Research Service and National Institute of Food and Agriculture outside of Washington. The investigation also seeks to see if USDA has the authority to make the moves. The investigation could trigger further efforts by Congress to block or restrict the USDA decision. USDA is planning to relocate the agencies next year, but many in Congress, along with others including USDA employees, have criticized the move. Perdue says the move would save the agency money.

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